Natasha joined Gold Star in 2009 after coaching in the Bay Area for the past decade – teaching all levels of gymnastics, working as a receptionist and helping with the billing for a neighboring club. Natasha is an internationally acclaimed gymnast (competing under the name Natalia Kalinina). She was born in the Ukraine, starting gymnastics at the tender age of six. Natasha is a former member of the all but undefeatable Soviet team from 1989 to 1992, becoming a part of the Ukraine team from 1992 to 1995. She was one of the first women to compete a double layout on floor, and in 1990 during the Goodwill Games, she earned a perfect 10.0 on Floor with this as her opening tumbling run. This unbelievable achievement helped her to become the World Champion at this competition winning Gold on Floor, Beam and All-Around. Natasha is fitting us in between college classes and her daytime accounting job. Not only astronomically knowledgeable, she is sweet and personable. She truly enjoys working with every level of student; from the youngest and newest to the most committed and advanced. She embraces the smallest of victories – a first forward roll or cartwheel stood up – with a joyous glee. She simply loves the sport – and strives to see that adoration in our gymnasts’ eyes. We feel incredibly fortunate to have Natasha as one of ours.